Guwahati: In its latest move, the Central government has permitted cinema halls to operate at 100% seating capacity from February 1, 2021.
The government, in this regard has announced fresh guidelines as part of the phased ease of restrictions of the Coronavirus lockdown.
Multiplexes and cinema halls were allowed only 50% occupancy so far to maintain social distancing and avoid crowds as the pandemic raged.
The move has been welcomed by many and comes as a relief to cinema halls that were closed for nearly seven months last year due to the pandemic. The number of coronavirus cases has also seen a decline in the past weeks as the Centre’s decision comes into force.
The new set of SOPs issued by the ministry of information and broadcasting for cinema halls and theatres are:
- Adequate physical distancing of at least 6 feet to be followed outside the auditoriums, common areas and waiting areas at all times.
- Use of face covers/masks to be made mandatory at all times.
- Availability of hand sanitizers, preferably in the touch-free mode, at entry and exit points as well as common areas within the premises.
- Respiratory etiquettes to be strictly followed. This involves strict practice of covering one’s mouth and nose while coughing/sneezing with a tissue/handkerchief/flexed elbow and disposing off used tissues properly.
- Self-monitoring of health by all and reporting any illness at the earliest to state and district helpline.
- Spitting is strictly prohibited.
- Installation and use of Aarogya Setu App shall be advised to all.
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